China tours & travel

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You could travel for a lifetime in China and there would still be more to explore, taste and experience.

Neon cities, remote villages, deserts, smoky markets and ancient artefacts – there’s adventure waiting at every corner. So, where to start? How about taking a walk along the iconic Great Wall, away from the larger crowds; wandering through the ancient royal residence of the Forbidden City; seeing the immortal Terracotta Army for yourself or standing in front of the largest Buddha statue in the world. The mix of old and futuristic will keep you in awe. Then there’s the food! Dumplings forevermore…

Transport in China

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in China, you may find yourself travelling by:

Bicycle

Cycling through China is a great way to see the country from ground level. Whether you're pedalling through the hutongs or the countryside, you'll see the sights and get to meet locals along the way.

Best time to visit China

Best time to visit China

Due to China's large size, there are great variations in the climate - depending on what area you're travelling in, expect different temperatures and conditions. Autumn and spring are generally the better seasons to visit as temperatures are less extreme than in summer and winter. Be aware that travelling through China during Chinese New Year presents some challenges, with many businesses closing and public transport (especially rail) much busier due to locals moving around the country to visit their families.

Culture and customs

Culture and customs

As one of the world's oldest cultures, China has a fascinating array of cultural treasures to observe, taste, admire and learn about. Ancient mythology and spirituality is infused throughout the traditional dance, art, music and literature of China, with many contemporary customs being directly attributed to century-old traditions. While modern China is changing at a rapid pace, with technological advances and infrastructure cropping up at a speedy rate, much of China still clings to age-old traditions and ways of life. This culture clash is particularly evident when visiting large cities like Beijing that are home to ancient hutongs, modern skyscrapers, time-worn temples and glorious UNESCO World Heritage sites, which can all be found near each other. Culturally, China has given the world everything from martial arts to mah jong, with the greater world enjoying China's rich cuisine, delicate art, evocative dance and enlightening philosophy. Although the language may be impenetrable for new comers and some of the customs and foods a little strange to western tastes, China's culture remains one of the world's most fascinating.

Food and drink

Food and drink

Nearly every region and minority group have its own cooking style, although foodies break these down into eight major schools of cooking: Anhui, Cantonese, Fuijan, Hunan, Jiangsu, Shandong, Sichuan and Zhejiang. These can also be grouped into northern, southern, western and eastern cooking styles.

Rich and hearty northern cuisine – flavoured with lots of salt, ginger, garlic and soy sauce – is what fed the emperors. Peking duck is a notoriously decadent northern dish. Dumplings and stuffed buns – two popular exports – are also northern staples. Northern dishes are typically heavy on red meat and light on vegetables (unless they are pickled). Southern cuisine – particularly from the Cantonese school – is what you’ve likely sampled at your local Chinatown. Famous for its dim sum (bite-sized portions), dishes are often steamed and only lightly seasoned, relying on the freshness of ingredients for flavour.

Western cuisine brings the heat thanks to ample use of Sichuan peppercorn and red-hot chilli peppers. Sour cabbage fish soup is a western dish you can find in Sichuan restaurants across the country – but don’t let the name fool you, its spicy broth packs a punch. Finally, eastern cuisine tends to be sweeter in flavour and feature a wide variety of vegetables, shellfish, fish and other types of seafood.

Vegetarians should order with caution in China. Your best bet is to eat at vegetarian-specific restaurants or, in the absence of that, the local Buddhist temple restaurant, where food is guaranteed to be meat-free.

Things to try in China

1. Sichuan Hot Pot

Taste a bit of Chinese history by dipping into a fiery Sichuan hot pot filled with meat, vegetables, noodles and chilli. While each region in China has different varieties, the hot pots in Sichuan are among the spiciest.

2. Dim Sum (Yum Cha)

Sitting down to a dim sum banquet is one of Hong Kong's great culinary experiences. Bamboo baskets of salty dumplings and pots of cleansing tea change hands in this traditional feast that will leave you feeling very full.

3. Green Tea

China is home to one of the world's largest tea drinking cultures, with most locals sipping a few cups of tea daily. In western societies, green tea has risen in popularity of late, but has been used as a medicine in China for thousands of years.

4. Peking Duck

This famous roast duck dish from Beijing dates to Imperial China. Succulent slices of duck served between delicate pancakes with green onions and hoisin sauce is simply one of the best flavour combinations in the world.

Geography and environment

Geography and environment

Located in east Asia along the coast of the Pacific Ocean, China is the third largest nation in the world and shares it border with 14 countries. Soaring peaks, high plateaus and desert occupy the western half of this vast country. Mount Everest and the Himalayas form the southwestern border with India, Nepal and Bhutan. The Taklamakan and Gobi desert stretch from west to east along the border with Mongolia in the north. The terrain slopes into broad plains and deltas in the east. Two major rivers flow through central China – the Yellow River in the north (often called the cradle of Chinese civilization) and the Yangtze River in the south (where rice paddies flourish).

History and government

History and government

Early History

As one of the world's oldest civilisations, China has an intriguing history that spans thousands of years. The Yellow River is known as the Cradle of Chinese Civilisation as it is thought that Chinese civilisation originated on the banks of the river. China's early history is dominated by periods of dynastic rule, fragmentation and imperialistic expansion, with each dynasty contributing something different to the annals of history. Construction of the Great Wall of China was thought to have started during the Qin Dynasty, with the Ming Dynasty enhancing the wall at a later stage. The Tang Dynasty is known as a time of prosperity and artistic expression, the Song Dynasty is famed for being a time of scientific and technological discovery, and Kublai Khan's Yuan Dynasty saw an overall population decline that has been attributed to everything from an administration error to the arrival of the Bubonic Plague. With the Yuan Dynasty being overthrown by the Ming Dynasty in 1368, population numbers began to increase again and urbanisation grew quite rapidly. During this time, private enterprise flourished, with small-scale paper, silk and cotton trading providing trade income to the masses. The following period of rule known as the Qing Dynasty stretched from 1644 to 1911. This is generally seen as a time of rebellion and upheaval with the Taiping Rebellion, Nien Rebellion, Panthay Rebellion and Boxer Rebellion all testing the Qing's ability to rule. Thankfully, remnants of most of these periods of history can be found in China today.

Recent History

The Republic of China was formed in Nanjing in 1912 after a military uprising. During the following years, leadership changed hands many times until the People's Liberation Army succeeded in ousting the US backed Chiang Kai-Shek after a long and bloody battle. Mao Zedong became Chairman (leader) of the People's Republic of China, which was declared in 1949, and China's society was systematically converted to communism, with land reforms and collectivisation of agriculture changing the structure of society and daily life dramatically. Mao's death in 1976 triggered leadership changes and economic reforms which had impacts that have rippled out into the future. More recently, China has seen Hong Kong and Macau returned from foreign rule, has enjoyed a period of increased economic growth and basked in the international spotlight as the host city of the 2008 Summer Olympics.

Top 10 Must-See Icons of China

Top 10 Must-See Icons of China

1. The Great Wall

At 6,000 km long, the Wall is like an old friend that keeps popping its head up on your travels. You're likely to glimpse it from train windows, but the best way to experience it is with a walk. It's steep, but with every step you're rewarded with an amazing sense of history.

2. Terracotta Warriors

These 8,000 soldiers and their horses have stood guard for 2,000 years over the First Emperor of China. Beautifully preserved and standing in full battle regalia, they are a highlight of any trip to China.

3. Longji Terraces

Nicknamed the dragon's backbone with good reason, the rice terraces soar into the sky like ribs from a mythical beast and bring different colours and moods with every season. Hike through them to small villages where life has remained unchanged for centuries.

4. Shanghai

This bustling metropolis is modern China at its best. Take in the futuristic skyline of the Bund, get a taste of Europe at the French Concession or grab a bargain at bustling Yuyuan Bazaar.

5. Giant Pandas

These gorgeous, black and white fur-balls originate from China but are loved by the world. Visit the breeding program in Chengdu that is helping to save this rare species and see for yourself why pandas have captivated the world.

6. Yangzi River

Take a cruise down the world's third largest river for front row seats to rural China. Explore tributaries, see the phenomenal Three Gorges Dam and take time out on deck to learn mah jong or brush up on your Mandarin.

7. Emei Shan

Take a cable car to the peak of this holy mountain. Then the active can choose to join pilgrims for the six hour hike back down, past cool streams and rainforests. Spend the night in a simple monastery and wake to the sound of monks chanting.

8. Shaolin Temple

Watch kung fu students practise their moves at the legendary Shaolin Temple. For those feeling game, there is the opportunity to attend a class and soak up some of the wisdom.

9. Tiananmen Square

Beijing's huge city square has seen many important historical events take place over the years. Surrounded by monuments and flags, this is an icon of China not to be missed.

10. The Forbidden City

This UNESCO World Heritage site located in the middle of Beijing has historical and political importance. As an imperial palace, the Forbidden City housed emperors - now this place is recognised as being the largest collection of preserved ancient wooden structures in the world. Don't miss it!

Shopping

Shopping

China is a shopper's wonderland with a multitude of different shopping experiences: from the massive malls of Beijing to the fashion boutiques of Shanghai and the small village markets that are dotted around the country.

It's a good idea to check with customs to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in China

1. Silk

As the home of silk, Chinese silk is legendary. Greatly admired by the world for centuries, don’t leave China without picking up some silk fabric, clothing or scarves.

2. Chinese Calligraphy Art

This beautiful art form has been practised in China for centuries. Buy an antique art work or get a customised piece featuring your name made on the spot.

3. Paper Cut Art

This traditional art is a painstaking process that ultimately creates an intricately beautiful result. Associated with Chinese New Year, you will be able to find paper art souvenirs all year round, with flowers, animals and people being the most common.

4. Chinese Knots

These traditional, decorative handicrafts are seen as a symbol of health and prosperity, and make brilliant gifts for friends back home.

Festivals and Events in China

Festivals and Events in China

Harbin Ice and Snow Festival

Ever wanted to visit a real-life winter wonderland? Then get to Harbin in January to see massive illuminated sculptures made of snow and ice. Past creations have included the Great Wall (which doubled as an awesome slide), the pyramids of Egypt and a Disney castle.

Chinese New Year (Spring Festival)

The most important holiday in the country, Chinese New Year is such a big deal it is celebrated over 15 days. The main event is New Year’s Eve when red decorations are hung all around and people travel home for a family dinner. Children receive red envelopes stuffed with cash and fireworks and firecrackers go off at midnight. Lanterns, bracelets, cards and tokens are coloured red as this is considered to be the colour of good fortune. The following days are spent visiting family and friends. Visitors should keep in mind it can be incredibly difficult to travel during this period as the whole country is on the move so they can be home.

Lantern Festival

Marking both the end of Chinese New Year celebrations, the Lantern Festival is a festival in its own right and takes place 15 days after Chinese New Year. It’s a fantastic time to be in China as the country lights up with colourful lanterns. Towns host celebrations featuring traditional dragon dances, stilt walkers, acrobats, float parades, fireworks and lots of sweet rice snacks.

Dragon Boat Festival

Equal parts frantic dragon boat racing and sticky rice treat consumption, this three-day festival – meant to commemorate ancient Chinese poet Qu Yuan – is celebrated across China. On the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, people flock to waterways to feast on zongzi (rice dumplings) and realgar wine as they watch colourful boats race.

Health and safety

Health and safety

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously, and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

China travel FAQs

Visitors from most nations are required to obtain a visa for trips to mainland China. Make sure to apply before leaving your home country – if you don’t, your applications might be denied. You will need a Single Entry Tourist for your trip valid for 30 days.
Hong Kong is not considered part of mainland China for immigration purposes and most nationalities do not require a visa to go there. Please check with you local embassy for specific requirements for Hong Kong and mainland China.
Information required for Chinese visa applications:

1. List the destinations you will visit in China in chronological order on your application form. Do not mention Tibet anywhere on your application form, even if your tour goes here. You will be given a specific itinerary to use if booking a Tibet trip. While Tibet is not off-limits to travellers, you must obtain a Chinese visa first, before we apply for your Tibet permit on your behalf.

IMPORTANT: Including Tibet on your visa application without being booked on a government-arranged tour will lead to your visa being rejected.

2. Name of Host/Inviting Organisation: This will be supplied at the time of booking.
3. Hotel list: This will be sent to you at the time of booking. If you do not receive this, email us with your booking number and trip details.
4. Official invitation from licensed Chinese tourism company: This will be provided from us together with the Hotel List to all travellers regardless of whether it is required by the consulate or not and will assist with your application.
5. Itinerary: Print off a copy of your specific trip itinerary from our website and include it with your application, marking the dates you will visit each destination if required (exception applies to Tibet tours, please see relevant Essential Trip Information for more details)
6. Photocopy of your passport
7. Passport size photos (up to four may be required)

Please note that requirements can change at any time. Make sure to check your local consulate or embassy for any other specific requirements.

Generally, tipping is not expected on mainland China, although leaving spare change at restaurants and giving a small amount to porters or bar staff is becoming more commonplace (although not mandatory). Some large hotels and restaurants may already include a 10%-15% surcharge within the bill. The culture of tipping is different in Hong Kong, where taxi drivers and restaurants will usually round up the bill, and service staff like porters will generally expect a tip.

Internet can be accessed at hotels and internet cafes in large cities and tourist areas but is limited in rural and remote areas. Be aware that many popular websites are blocked in China including Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Squat toilets are most common in China, though Western-style flushable toilets can sometimes be found in modern hotels and restaurants. Make sure to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer, as these are rarely provided.

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in China. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available, often boiled to use for tea. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Major credit cards are accepted by large hotels, stores and restaurants, but may not be accepted by smaller vendors such and market stalls. Make sure to always carry some cash in case credit cards are not an option.

Travellers will be able to access ATMs in China's large cities and regional centres. Rural and remote areas will have less ATM access so ensure you have other payment modes before venturing out of the city. Not all Chinese ATMs will accept foreign cards.

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

Equal rights have a long way to go in China. The government heavily censors portrayals of same-sex relationships and, up until 2001, homosexuality was considered a mental illness. That being said, China is a relatively hassle-free destination for LGBTQI travellers who use discretion. People are generally tolerant and homophobic-related violence is incredibly rare. Low-key gay scenes/communities can be found in larger cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong. While it’s common for friends of the same sex to hold hands, keep in mind any further displays of affection are frowned upon; this applies to heterosexual couples as well.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.

Responsible Travel

Intrepid is committed to travelling in a way that is respectful of local people, their culture, local economies and the environment. It's important to remember that what may be acceptable behaviour, dress and language in your own country, may not be appropriate in another. Please keep this in mind while travelling.

Top responsible travel tips for China

Be considerate of China’s customs, traditions, religion and culture.

For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Always dispose of litter thoughtfully, including cigarette butts.

When bargaining at markets, stay calm, be reasonable and keep a smile on your face. It's meant to be fun!

Learn some local language and don't be afraid to use it - simple greetings will help break the ice.

Refrain from supporting businesses that exploit or abuse endangered animals.

Please ask and receive permission before taking photos of people, including children.

When on community visits or homestays, refrain from giving gifts or money to locals.

The Intrepid Foundation

The Intrepid Foundation provides travellers with an opportunity to give something back to the many wonderful communities we travel to. By donating to The Intrepid Foundation you can make a difference in local communities - in health care, education, human rights, child welfare and the protection of wildlife and the environment.

In China, The Intrepid Foundation proudly supports:

Xi'an Huiling

Providing skills, training, employment services and housing assistance, this organisation works to better the lives of disabled people in Xi'an by increasing the amount of opportunities available to this marginalised section of the population.